Ego and Self: A Synthesis of Theories of Consciousness and Personality.

Tatzel, Miriam

Ego and self refer to two ways of being. They are related on the one hand to neurosis and health and on the other hand to rational and intuitive modes of consciousness. The author in this article considers consciousness as it pertains to knowing oneself. She examines how ego, the rational consciousness as applied to oneself, can obstruct objectivity and lead to confusion. There is also an examination of how self, the intuitive consciousness as applied to oneself, can transcend subjective biases and lead to clarity. (Author/PC)